road trippin' with kids

Our family is excited
Kids can barely keep their cool
In the morning, we head out
To a big place with a rad pool

However, there's an issue
The fun place is hours away
And the long drive means that we
Are in a van the whole damn day

Way back when road trips meant
Pre-mama packed for only one
A pillow, wine, cute outfits—
This girl was ready for some fun

Now, the packing begins
Days before the van sets sail
Because kids require planning
Or mom sets herself up to fail

One requires medication
That’s taken every four with food
Another has a blankie
That, if forgotten, will come unglued

Never, ever forget snacks
I cannot stress this one enough
And separate water bottles
Or a smooth trip will become rough

Are we there yet? plays on repeat
A hundred times in hour one
And after hearing that question
One thousand more, parents are done

The notion of no screen time
Should be tossed out for road trips
Mom and dad's saving grace is
A whole movie without a blip

Then there is the arguing 
Must be resolved from the front seat
Yelling, screaming, name-calling
Alongside requests for more sweet treats

And mom will often give in
Because she's literally trapped
Continues checking the car’s Nav
Hoping they’re closer on the map

Finally, the fam arrives 
At the fun place with the rad pool
The kids pour out and stretch their legs
And parents lay out the ground rules

The gas tank may be empty
And mom and dad are out of ducks
But share a sweet and silent glance
And are reminded of their luck